Some 50 pieces of art inspired by exotic places both real and imaginary will be showcased in a new exhibit at the Stamford Art Association Gallery entitled “Faraway Places.” “The works are all by contemporary artists who drew their inspiration from foreign locations, intriguing destinations, and even daydreams,” said Christine Irvin, Co-President of the Stamford Art Association. “It was the encounter with different cultures, and with unconscious places in their own minds, that shaped these artists’ dramatic imagery.”

The juror for the show is Camilla Cook, art consultant., who will select the winners from among the entries in the show, including paintings, photographs, mixed media, and sculpture. Awards for first, second, and third place and two honorable mentions will be announced at the opening reception on Sunday, July 18, 4 – 6 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The exhibit continues through Thursday, August 26, 2010.

Established in 1971, the Stamford Art Association is a nonprofit organization whose members include painters, sculptors, printmakers, and photographers. Its mission is to provide a forum where artists can exhibit their work to the community and compete in juried shows. Annual competitions are judged by prominent jurors from art institutions in New York and surrounding areas, including the Whitney Museum, Bruce Museum, and Museum of Modern Art.